BLOOMINGTON -
Students at Indiana University are still celebrating the Hoosiers' upset win over Kentucky Saturday.
The last-second, 73-72 win over the Wildcats put the Hoosiers back into the Top 25 of the Associated Press men's basketball poll. They are ranked number 18. The ESPN/USA Today Coaches Poll places IU at the 20th spot. (See all rankings here.)
It is what IU fans have been hoping for and what IU coaches and players have been working for.
"I think everyone was really excited that we finally got a big win over a ranked opponent," said Matt Hamman.
The question that no one can really answer here for sure, even now, during finals week - What does it really mean?
"I think it meant IU basketball is back," said Athletic Director Fred Glass.
Glass is not alone. In fact, the "Crush the Cats" t-shirts were already being replaced at The Indiana Shop in Bloomington with another shirt, featuring two simple words - "We're Back."
Maybe that is what sent fans to the streets, or even had them standing and cheering at neighboring Nick's on game night. Glass says, even in celebration, Hoosiers showed a good side.
"They weren't burning their couches. They weren't turning over cars. They were having fun," Glass said. "I think it really reflected well on IU that we had a good celebration and not destructive celebrations that sometimes erupt in situations like that."
But the shot and the celebration did turn one Purdue grad into a Hoosier fan.
"I have got to say that game won me over," said Nick Catania. "It was the greatest last second shot I have ever seen and was probably the most exciting game I have ever seen."
You know it's a big win when you have Occupy Bloomington's attention. A chalkboard outside the group's encampment of tents read "Go Hoosiers" Monday.
There is a lot in students' minds, but last weekend, it was basketball. There is a sense on campus that something has changed.
"There has been a big change. So it's like the investment is paying off with what the coach has done and players have invested. It's paying off," said Dr. Henry Wakhungu.
"We are finally getting our feet back in the door. Finally doing good again, so maybe it will mean something for the Big Ten," said Whitney Rainey.
The Hoosiers are not back in action again until after Finals Week. They will play against Notre Dame on Saturday.
Also, Hoosier forward Christian Watford, who made the buzzer-beating shot, was named this week's Big Ten player of the Week.
